Did you know May is recognised as Africa Month? A time to celebrate the continent’s liberation, diverse cultures, histories, and achievements? Let’s quickly take you down history. On 25th May 1963 thirty African leaders gathered in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia for a historic meeting that birth the Organisation of African Unity, now known as the African Union. This day is set aside to mark this historic event as Africa Day, but many celebrate the continent all through May. Think of it as the African version of Black History Month.
We want to take time out to acknowledge the African literary landscape and its evolution over the years. The continent’s rich tradition of storytelling has been passed down through generations, from folktales and proverbs to the enchanting performances of Griots. From the days of Heinemann’s African Writers Series, post-colonial African literary output reflects the continent’s rich culture, history, politics, societal issues.
As publishers, we’re proud to be a part of this evolution, supporting emerging talent and established writers from the continent and its diaspora. Over the past sixty years, there has been tremendously growth with the entry of more Africa-based publishers like Blackbird Books, Masobe, Farafina, Huza Press and Jahazi Press, social media reviewers to online literary magazines including Brittle Paper, AFREADA, Lolwe, The Renata and more. African writers now have more opportunities to share their stories with the world.
Despite the challenges we face, we remain optimistic about the future of African literature. As we celebrate Africa Month, we encourage you to #ReadAfricanWriters and support publishers like us and our writers. Together, we can ensure that the stories of Africa continue to be heard and celebrated.
Thank you for being a part of this journey with us.
